by Garden Gerty

Created on: August 29, 2011   Last Updated: August 30, 2011

Honeymoon Island State Park originally went by the not so glamorous name of Hog Island. That is, until an enterprising businessman built 50 thatched roof bungalows on the island in 1939. These  became the destination for the honeymooners of the day.

Not only is Honeymoon Island State Park a romantically scenic location, but it is also a wonderful destination for the entire family. The cost is minimal, at $5.00 per car, and there is something available to please all members of the family. There is even a beach reserved for the participation of the family dog. No need to leave Fido or Fluffy behind when everyone else is having fun. There are showers and ADA compliant restrooms available throughout the park. There are four miles of beach front and approximately 2 1'2 miles of hiking trails as well.

Visitors to Honeymoon Island State Park, at Dunedin, Florida, will be struck immediately by the sparkling white, sugar fine sand on the beaches. Those beaches are perfect for a romantic walk or a family frolic. Other places visitors may want to walk include nature trails and Ranger guided hikes and shelling experiences. This barrier island with white sand beaches is also home to one of the remaining virgin slash pine forests in the state of Florida. When you venture on the hiking trails you are sharing your space with the native wildlife, so be prepared to see Gopher tortoises, and armadillos, snakes , raccoons and osprey along with many other birds and creatures.

Land activities are not limited to shelling and nature hikes. There are interpretive exhibits in kiosks all around the park and the  Rotary Centennial Nature Center is open for education and enjoyment. The concession area has decks with great Gulf views, and bicycles, or beach chairs and umbrellas to rent. There are picnic pavilions available for reservation and other picnic areas to rent. The children will have fun playing on the playgrounds as well. Bring a lunch or purchase food at the Cafe Honeymoon or the Honeymoon Pavilion. View the shore birds nesting. You may even catch a glimpse of a Bald Eagle while on the island.

Water recreation is something to count on when visiting an island. Walk in the water along the shore, or swim.Then enjoy soaking up the sun on the beach. Surfing is usually pretty good at Honeymoon Island, and for those who enjoy kayaking you can bring your own kayak , or rent one at the concession.

Honeymoon Island State Park in Florida makes a beautiful backdrop for a beach side wedding. Anniversaries, birthdays and other celebrations fit right in as well. Contact the park for  information about reservations. Cafe Honeymoon will be glad to assist You may phone them at (727) 736-2132 for more details.

As with any summer activity you will want to be sure to take care of yourself, stay hydrated, use sun protection and bring insect repellent. Some activities have specified terms for use that include safety and ability. The park rangers and the concessionaires will be able to help you make your trip to Honeymoon Island, Florida a safe and memorable occasion.

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